How to Protect Your Hardscapes from Winter Damage  

How to Protect Your Hardscapes from Winter Damage  

While many associate winter with holidays and cherished moments with loved ones, the season holds a different significance for homeowners who’ve invested time and money into their landscaping. Cold weather can wreak havoc on your hardscapes, leaving them cracked, stained, and in desperate need of repair by spring. At Adam’s Landscaping, Inc., we’ve spent the last 30 years perfecting the art of hardscape design and installation and know how much these spaces mean to our clients. In this post, we’ll walk you through how to protect your hardscapes from winter damage so you can spend less time stressing.

Understanding What You’re Up Against

To protect your hardscapes, it’s important to first understand how winter weather affects them. Here are some common types of winter-induced damage:

Freeze-Thaw Cycles

When water seeps into cracks or porous surfaces and freezes, it expands. This repeated freeze-thaw action can widen cracks and weaken the structural integrity of your hardscape. Over time, even small cracks can grow into significant problems.

Salt Damage

De-icing salts commonly used during winter can be harsh on your hardscapes. These salts can erode the surface of concrete, pavers, and stone, leading to discoloration and surface degradation.

Snow Accumulation and Ice Coverage

While snow may look picturesque, excessive accumulation and heavy ice can put unnecessary pressure on hardscape surfaces. This can cause structural strain or make existing issues worse.

By understanding these risks, you can take the necessary steps to minimize damage and maintain your outdoor spaces.

Step 1: Clean and Seal Your Hardscapes

Before winter arrives, it’s essential to give your hardscapes a thorough cleaning and sealing. This will remove any built-up dirt and create a protective barrier against moisture. Start by sweeping or blowing away any leaves, twigs, or other debris from your hardscape surfaces. Then, use a pressure washer to remove any stubborn stains or grime. Once the surface is clean and dry, apply a high-quality sealant designed explicitly for hardscapes. This will prevent water from seeping into cracks and causing damage.

Step 2: Clear Snow Carefully

When it comes to snow removal, the key is to be gentle and strategic. Use a plastic shovel or a broom with soft bristles to remove snow from your hardscape surfaces without causing damage. Avoid using metal shovels as they can scratch and chip the surface.

Step 3: Prevent Damage from Ice Melt Products

Instead of using traditional de-icing salts, opt for more eco-friendly alternatives such as calcium chloride, potassium chloride, or magnesium chloride. These are less damaging to your hardscapes but still effectively melt ice and prevent slips and falls.

Step 4: Monitor Your Drains

To avoid water pooling on your hardscape surfaces, make sure your drains are clear and functioning properly. If water is not able to drain effectively, it can create additional pressure on your hardscape and increase the risk of damage.

Step 5: Regularly Inspect for Damage

Despite taking all precautions, it’s still important to regularly inspect your hardscapes for any signs of damage. Catching issues early on can help prevent them from becoming more severe and costly to repair.

How to Repair Winter Damage

If, despite your best efforts, your hardscapes experience damage during winter, it’s crucial to address the issues as soon as possible to prevent further deterioration. Small cracks or chips can often be handled with DIY repair kits available at most home improvement stores, which usually include a sealant and instructions for proper application. However, for more extensive damage, such as large cracks, significant shifting, or structural problems, it’s wise to consult a professional hardscape contractor. These experts have the experience and tools needed to assess the damage accurately and provide the most effective solutions, ensuring that your hardscapes are restored to their original beauty and functionality.

Tackle Winter Head On Today!

Winter is a scary time for your landscape, but with these steps and precautions in mind, you can protect your hardscapes from winter damage and ensure they stay in top condition year-round. By investing time and effort into maintaining your outdoor spaces, you can continue enjoying them for many winters to come. For any further questions or assistance with your landscaping, don’t hesitate to contact us at Adam’s Landscaping, Inc. Our team of experts is always ready to help you keep your hardscapes looking their best.